Our second favorite carmaker of the moment, Hyundai, has confirmed plans to launch a luxury brand similar to Honda's Acura or Nissan's Infiniti. The Korean carmaker is garnering significant interest due to its forthcoming launch of the V8-engined, RWD Genesis Sedan and Coupe. The new luxury brand will initially appear in China in 2010, but depending on its success, could be launched elsewhere.

Speaking to China Daily, company spokesperson Young-Key Koo, "In 2010, we will officially launch our luxury brand name and logo along the lines of Toyota's Lexus, Nissan's Infiniti and Honda's Acura. All of our luxury models will have the new badge."

Koo also revealed plans to launch one or two new luxury models each year, necessary to compete with their Japanese rivals. [Via Motor Authority]